Drones in Alaska serve a wide array of functions, playing a vital role in both recreational and commercial sectors while operating under FAA regulations and local flight restrictions. Commercially, they are increasingly used in agriculture for crop monitoring, in wildlife conservation for tracking animal populations, and in emergency response efforts such as search and rescue operations or delivering supplies to remote areas. Law enforcement agencies also deploy drones for surveillance and situational awareness, while scientists rely on them for collecting critical data—especially for studying the impacts of climate change in Alaska’s unique and often inaccessible environments.
Beyond their professional applications, drones are valuable tools for inspecting infrastructure like pipelines, power lines, and bridges, helping ensure safety in harsh and expansive terrain. In mountainous regions, drones are even used for avalanche control, assisting ski patrols and safety crews. Meanwhile, recreational drone enthusiasts use them for aerial photography, videography, and racing, taking advantage of Alaska's vast and stunning landscapes. Together, these uses highlight the growing importance of drones across Alaskan industries and communities.
